Glyndŵr University student named NUS Wales student unionist of the year

26 March 2012

A Glyndŵr University student has been named top student unionist in Wales.

John McGann, clubs and societies officer at the university’s student guild, has been jointly awarded the title by NUS Wales.

The award was made in recognition of John’s 'tireless' work to promote student activism and the rapidly growing number of societies at the university.

FdEng Aeronautical engineering student John, 22, of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, is hoping to become an engineering officer in the RAF when he graduates.

His NUS nomination stated: “John deserves recognition for his tireless work to promote student unionism at Glyndwr University… his activities have shown him to be a unionist of the highest calibre.”

John became involved with the students' guild in his first year at university, 2009, taking up the post of entertainments officer.

In his current role as clubs and societies officer he has overseen an 80 per cent increase in the number of clubs on offer to students at the university – including new interest groups for dance, motorsport, photography and psychology.

John organised Glyndŵr University students’ protests against tuition fees in London last year and was one of the founder members of Speak Out, a campaign to combat hate crim.

The scheme started at Glyndŵr University and is on the verge of being introduced at more than 20 universities and further education colleges in Wales.

John said he initially got involved through a desire to improve the social scene at the university.

He added: “Thankfully it’s been really successful. It’s taken two and a half years but I think change is now happening which will make for a better student experience for everyone who comes to Glyndŵr.”

Glyndŵr University enterprise associate Matthew Draycott said: “I believe that John has all the best qualities of a Glyndŵr University student. He has tirelessly given his time to help other students, creating events and campaigns that will benefit not only Glyndŵr University but all students in Wales.”